Location Scouting - Things to Think About

Looking for locations can be fun and time consuming especially if you have multiple locations in the script. But if you follow this simple guide you can potential avoid a lot of issues when it comes to securing the right location. This isn't a comprehensive guide, but at least it will give you a framework to work from. 

1. Go Prepared

Approaching potential locations with a break down of the scenes and a rough guide to how long each scene will take to shoot, and how many people will be on set (really important if you are using a house), will help ease the homeowner or property manager's minds.

Have a business card ready, or a flyer that gives details of the project, website, email and telephone contact info.

Explain clearly what the project is about and how the location will help elevate the cinematic quality of the production.

2. Underestimating Hidden Costs

Many indie filmmakers assume a location is “free” because someone agreed verbally—but hidden costs often appear:

• Insurance requirements

• Permit fees

• Location maintenance or cleaning

• Parking fees

• Power needs (e.g., generators)

How to avoid it:

Ask every location owner for a list of requirements, get it in writing, and do a quick cost breakdown before committing.

3. Not Securing Proper Permissions

A handshake agreement or assumption can shut down your shoot.

• Owners may back out.

• Neighbors might complain.

• Councils can require immediate permits.

How to avoid it:

Always use a simple, clear location agreement or release form (many free templates exist). Even for a friend’s apartment.

4. Noise and Environmental Issues

Low-budget films often pick “free” public or semi-public spaces, only to be ruined by:

• Traffic noise

• Neighbors or customers

• Airplanes or construction

• Air Conditioning systems you can’t turn off

How to avoid it:

Visit the location during the exact time of day you plan to shoot. Listen carefully. Take a short phone recording to detect ambient noise.

5. Overlooking Lighting and Power Limitations

Small-budget productions often don’t have the gear to compensate for poor conditions.

• Not enough outlets

• Low light

• Mixed or ugly lighting (fluorescent flicker)

• No control over natural light

How to avoid it:

Do a tech scout with your DP. Check:

• Power load

• Light direction at your shooting times

• Windows you can’t block

• Breaker panel access 

6. Choosing Locations Too Far Apart

Transportation is a massive hidden budget-killer.

• More time lost moving gear

• Hiring vans or trucks

• Feeding people longer because days run long

How to avoid it:

Cluster your locations. Ideally, choose one “base” location that can double as multiple settings with minor redressing.

7. Not Considering Neighbor Interference

Neighbors can shut down your shoot—especially if you bring lights or noise.

• Complaints lead to police visits.

• Property owners may cancel.

How to avoid it:

Do a friendly neighbor notification:

• Introduce yourself

• Share shooting hours

• Provide a contact number

Most people are nicer when they aren’t surprised.

8. Assuming “Public Space = Free to Film”

Many public areas require:

• Permits

• Liability insurance

• Time restrictions

Even “run and gun” shoots risk fines.

How to avoid it:

Research local film office rules. Some cities have:

• Low-cost student / micro-budget permits

• Waived fees for crews under a certain size

• Allowed no-permit filming with small cameras

9. Not Having Backup Locations

Location owners can back out with zero notice.

• Double bookings

• Emergencies

• Cold feet

How to avoid it:

Always have a plan B for each major location.

10. Forgetting About Crew Comfort

On tiny budgets, locations often lack:

• Bathrooms

• Climate control

• Parking

• Food nearby

Crew morale will drop—fast.

How to avoid it:

Plan:

• A bathroom solution (partner store, portable unit, nearby café)

• Water and shade for outdoor shoots

• Carpooling to limited parking spots

11. Restricting the Script Instead of Thinking Creatively

Writers often constrain their script due to budget fears, but creative repurposing can open doors:

• One house = multiple interiors

• Friend’s workplace = office, hospital hallway, etc.

• Garden + smart lighting = alleyway or nighttime street

How to avoid it:

Design a shortlist of modular locations and build scenes around them.

Conclusion

Write for what you have locally and what you know. If you have access to a location try and write for that location. If you have two or three close friends who are actors, then write a film for three characters.

Try to avoid large crowd scenes, unless you have a good following on social media where you can put out a call for extras.

Even on a No or Low budget films, there are costs, the main one is feeding your cast and crew. Most people will work for nothing, but keeping them fed and watered will go a long way in keeping them happy on set, and willing to go the extra mile for you.